Save the Cat rankings

Toy Story script analysis

Toy Story script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Toy Story follows Woody’s world of order upended by the arrival of Buzz Lightyear, kicking off conflict and growth. Woody’s rivalry with Buzz leads them on a wild adventure through Gas Station and Pizza Planet, culminating in their friendship and Woody’s redemption. The B story of their bond runs parallel to Andy’s toys’ reactions and Sid’s menace. The final image mirrors the opening, showing harmony among the toys.

90 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 24 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

Introduces Andy’s bedroom and Woody’s leadership role, establishing the status quo.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

10%

Toys come to life, hinting at themes of identity and purpose.

Okay, everybody. Coast is clear.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-3 / Page 1 / 10% target

11%

We meet Woody and the toy community routines and stakes around Andy’s birthday party.

Has everyone picked a moving buddy?
4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 1 / 12% target

10%

Buzz Lightyear arrives and shifts the toys’ dynamics.

Buzz Lightyear to Star Command. Come in, Star Command.
5

Debate

Scenes 7-9 / Page 1 / 20% target

11%

Woody and Buzz clash over identity and Andy’s affection.

Listen, Lightsnack, you stay away from Andy. He's mine, and no one is taking him away from me.
6

Break into Two

Scene 11 / Page 1 / 25% target

11%

Woody’s attempt to rid himself of Buzz results in Buzz being knocked out the window, launching the adventure.

That's Mr. Potato Head to you, you back-stabbin' murderer!
7

B Story

Scenes 12-13 / Page 1 / 30% target

11%

Woody and Buzz bond over shared predicament as they board the Pizza Planet truck.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 14-16 / Page 1 / 40% target

11%

They navigate the Pizza Planet and its arcade, showcasing playful obstacles and teamwork.

9

Midpoint

Scene 17 / Page 1 / 50% target

11%

Buzz believes he’s succeeded by meeting the aliens, giving a false sense of victory.

Greetings! I am Buzz Lightyear! I come in peace!
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 18-19 / Page 1 / 65% target

11%

Sid’s torturous experiments and Buzz’s delusion raise stakes and internal pressure.

We are gonna die. I'm outta here!
11

All Is Lost

Scene 20 / Page 1 / 75% target

11%

Buzz’s breakdown in the hallway marks the lowest emotional point.

...I'm just a little depressed, that's all. I can get through this.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scenes 21-22 / Page 1 / 80% target

11%

Woody’s desperation peaks as he tries to signal the toys and chases the moving truck against Scud.

You can do it, Woody.
13

Break into Three

Scene 23 / Page 1 / 85% target

11%

Woody decides to infiltrate the moving truck and save Buzz with the RC car plan.

Are we there already?
14

Finale

Scenes 23-24 / Page 1 / 95% target

11%

They rescue each other and return to Andy, resolving conflicts and uniting the toy community.

15

Final Image

Scene 24 / Page 1 / 99% target

10%

The Christmas morning scene mirrors the opening, showing restored harmony among the toys.

Merry Christmas, Sheriff.